The Westchester County Youth Bureau recently held its fourth annual “Invest Fest” at Ridge Road Park. The event celebrated the success of the Youth Bureau’s Invest in Kids programs, drawing nearly 200 young attendees who participated in a variety of fun and educational activities. These included crafts, games, and live music.
Youth partner agencies were actively involved, offering activities that highlighted their programs. Among them were Volunteer New York!’s “Cards of Cheer” campaign for hospital patients, Groundwork Hudson Valley’s balloon archery, and G.O.O.D. for Girls, Inc.’s affirmation stations. The festival provided an opportunity for youth to learn about available county resources.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins addressed participants: “Because of Westchester County’s commitment to Invest in Kids funding over 30 years ago, today has been organized just for you. We thank the Youth Bureau and all of our partners that collaborated to make Invest Fest happen. Please enjoy all of the activities provided by the youth agencies — they are here and invested in you because they care about kids in our County. Let’s put the phones away, make some new friends and be all in on this experience.”
Ernest McFadden, Executive Director of the Westchester County Youth Bureau, expressed satisfaction with the event: “It was a tough call because of the weather forecast but I had faith, and we have another exceptional Invest Fest in the books. It was a tremendous turnout for both the young people who attended and the agencies that participated. I am grateful to all our partners for coming up with creative, meaningful activities to entertain and enrich the hearts, minds and bodies of our youth.”
The event saw participation from various agencies including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Club of New Rochelle, Center Lane, El Centro Hispano, Family Services of Westchester among others.
